If you are on the lookout for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve got to try this Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe. It’s a bright, buttery, and utterly delicious chicken dish that comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without any hassle. The tender chicken bites soaked in zingy lemon juice and rich butter, complemented by garlic and parsley, strike just the right balance between fresh and comforting. Once you take that first bite, it’ll become one of your go-to recipes for its simplicity and unforgettable flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you really need for this Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe are straightforward, quality ingredients that shine through in each bite. Each component plays a crucial role: the chicken serves as a hearty protein base, while the butter and olive oil create a silky, flavorful sauce. Garlic adds that irresistible savory aroma, and the lemon juice and zest bring a burst of freshness. Finally, parsley sprinkles a touch of green vibrancy to finish.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs: Bite-sized pieces that cook quickly and stay juicy.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Creates the silky, rich base for the sauce.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps in browning the chicken beautifully while adding a fruity undertone.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds fragrant depth and bold savory notes.
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Provides a fresh, tangy brightness that lifts the entire dish.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds gentle heat and a hint of spice.
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional): For a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color.
- 1–2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, herbaceous garnish that rounds out the flavors.
How to Make Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken pieces evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika if you’re using it. This foundational step makes sure every bite is flavorful, building a well-rounded taste right from the start.
Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil
Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The hot oil is essential for getting a nice golden crust on the chicken, which adds beautiful texture and extra flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally to achieve that perfect golden-brown finish and ensure they are cooked through to juicy tenderness.
Step 4: Remove and Set Aside
Take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside momentarily. This allows you to build the luscious lemon butter sauce in the same pan, capturing all those browned bits for maximum flavor.
Step 5: Add Butter to the Skillet
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. As it melts, it combines with the remaining olive oil and fond from the chicken, creating a silky, tasty base for the sauce.
Step 6: Sauté the Garlic
Once the butter has melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it; you want just enough time to release its intoxicating aroma and savory richness.
Step 7: Add Lemon Juice and Zest
Stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest. Allow the sauce to simmer briefly so the citrus flavor melds perfectly with garlic and butter, resulting in a bright, tangy finish that gives this recipe its signature pop.
Step 8: Return Chicken to Skillet
Put the chicken back into the skillet and toss it well to coat every bite in that luscious lemon butter sauce. This step is where all the flavors marry, making sure the chicken is juicy and wrapped in a glossy, flavorful coat.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken for a burst of color and herbaceous freshness. Serve immediately while warm for the best experience — your taste buds will thank you.
How to Serve Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic and simple garnish that brings color and a mild herbal brightness to the dish. For an extra touch, a few thin lemon slices or a sprinkle of lemon zest on top can intensify the citrusy appeal and look stunning on the plate.
Side Dishes
Because the Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe is rich and flavorful, it pairs beautifully with light and simple sides. Think fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A crisp green salad or steamed asparagus can add a refreshing crunch and green vibrancy to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the chicken on a large platter and drizzle extra lemon butter sauce over the top. Garnish the dish with parsley and lemon wedges arranged artfully around the edges. You can also serve this over a bed of pasta or quinoa for a colorful, hearty bowl that doubles as a crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3 days to preserve freshness and the delicate balance of lemon and butter flavors.
Freezing
This dish freezes nicely for up to 2 months. Cool the chicken completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. When freezing, keep the lemon butter sauce coating on the chicken to help retain moisture and flavor during thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low-medium heat to prevent drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short increments, stirring occasionally for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe?
Absolutely! In fact, chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and bring more flavor, making them an excellent choice for this recipe. Just ensure you cut them into uniform bite-sized pieces to cook evenly.
Is it okay to substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative?
Yes, you can use dairy-free butter or even olive oil alone if needed. Keep in mind that butter adds richness and that unique creamy texture, so the flavor will be a bit lighter without it.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead separately and combine them at serving time. However, for the freshest lemon flavor and best texture, it’s ideal to assemble and serve soon after cooking.
What other herbs can I use instead of parsley?
Fresh thyme, basil, or tarragon also complement the lemon butter flavors beautifully. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand to personalize the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes with the paprika or incorporating a dash of cayenne pepper into the seasoning step will kick up the heat without overpowering the bright lemon butter sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe is the kind of meal that feels special yet is incredibly easy to make. It brings together simple ingredients in the most satisfying way, boasting rich buttery goodness paired with zesty freshness. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own — your family and friends will be asking for seconds, guaranteed!
Print
Lemon Butter Chicken Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Lemon Butter Chicken is a quick and flavorful skillet recipe featuring tender bite-sized chicken pieces cooked to golden perfection and tossed in a zesty lemon butter sauce with garlic and fresh parsley. Perfect for a simple weeknight meal, this dish combines savory, tangy, and buttery flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
Cooking Fats and Seasonings
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1–2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Evenly season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. This ensures each piece is well-flavored before cooking.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to warm up so the chicken will sear properly.
- Cook the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken pieces turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Remove chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken from the skillet onto a plate and set aside to keep warm.
- Melt the butter: Reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Let it melt completely, preparing the base for the sauce.
- Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Add lemon: Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, allowing the sauce to simmer briefly so the flavors meld together.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet and toss them thoroughly in the lemon butter sauce until every piece is fully coated.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the chicken for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.
Notes
- Using both chicken breasts or thighs works well; thighs tend to be juicier.
- Adjust paprika quantity or omit according to your spice preference.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and moist.
- For extra zest, add a small squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
